A 15th-century courtyard hides a petite contemporary apartment – a fabulous base from which to explore the city and all its treasures

Come for sea air, independent shops, great places to eat and this quirky cottage with plenty of room and a sunny walled garden

Generous apartments in a 300-year-old farmhouse with beautiful grounds and a swimming pool

Help yourself to the farm's strawberries and peaches, hop in the car to Colares, laze on the lovely terraces or simply gaze at the view

Encircled by wild dales and rugged fells, this spoiling cottage cocoons you in countryside peace with the added fun of a sauna in the garden

A cool little inn lost in beautiful hills, child- and dog-friendly, with happy staff and award-winning food

Minutes from the beach, this listed retreat comes with beautiful rooms in classical style, charming hosts and a family-run restaurant nearby

A seaside inn on Babbacombe Bay with views of sea and sky, rooms to feel happy in, a spa and homely, hearty dining

Breathe, relax in peaceful Provençal countryside: olives, lavender and budding fruit trees. Aix's lively markets are 10 minutes away

Four gîtes in the château’s vast barn, one in the tower. Magnificent mountain and valley views, and Sandrine’s regionally inspired meals

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

Grand and old and filled with history, the estate and such a pretty house are a tonic, as are the well-tended grounds and parkland

With incredible views across to distant hilltop towns, olive groves and buzzing bees, this elegant farmhouse has bags of charm

A sweet, very private-feeling annexe in the glorious South Hams with your own west-facing garden

The nicest owners, the most magical place with wild land to roam. Two barns share a pretty courtyard; Devon's delights are on the doorstep

This deeply peaceful retreat will soothe the soul; come to walk, bike, sail then back to a roaring fire and good book. A sublime spot

Inspiring art-filled Menorcan townhouse in Mahón’s old quarter; explore the city, cycle or hike the island’s gorges and feast on seafood

Medieval manor house and busy farm. A welcoming atmosphere, big bedrooms, breakfast in the baronial great hall by the cosy log fire